City of Fargo to soon release action plan for funds for housing and development

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — The City of Fargo is preparing to receive funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development for two federal programs: the Community Development Block Grant and the HOME Investment Partnerships Program.

“When we look at the average wage and the average salary to make ends meet, I think it doesn’t matter if you’re low-income or not. I think everybody’s seeing pricing costs go up. And so when you’re on a fixed income, that gap is big. And it’s a nationwide issue, not just a Fargo issue,” said Nicole Crutchfield, Director of Planning & Development.

The city’s goal is to provide more affordable housing, end and prevent homelessness, and improve infrastructure. Each year, the city has received approximately $1.4 million for the combined programs. This year, their goal is to receive nearly $1.34 million.

“We need it all. And I don’t know if there’s one greatest need. And so, that’s part of the work the Coalition to End Homelessness and the interagency council is trying to work on. And we’re very dependent on the non-profits and the other agencies that are on the front lines providing those support services to help people get housed and stay housed,” said Crutchfield.

Currently, there are a few projects that are in the works, with one being a rental assistance program. With the potential for the projects to be presented in the plan.

“We’re drafting the plan right now, with the proposal that we will publish for the thirty-day comment period. And then we’ll be bringing that to the city commission as a presentation,” said Crutchfield.

The city aims to provide the information to the public beginning May 7th. With a final submission by late June.